Missouri execution: another death, another grieving family. Is that what balances the scales of justice? Could it be mindless revenge instead? What are we looking for?

Five in a row … uninterrupted. Seems like we’re trying to run the table. Florida and Texas are pulling away in the race.

So, citizens of Missouri, name the man executed in November. What did he do? Then name the ones in December, January, February. What did they do?

Can’t remember? These deaths are being done in your name. Is this whole death penalty thing working for you? Are we safer? Are victims’ families happier? Has grief been dissipated? Are we more respected and admired as a state? Or do we applaud and cheer when the governor gives his “thumbs down”?

Let’s move forward. Dead-of-night and secretive taking of life that can’t withstand the light of day and accomplishes nothing awaits our collective rejection and abolishment.

When wasHisLastBreath?As a childWhen theSexual abuseBegan?Or whenNo one movedTo StopIt?As it continuedWith othersAnd he stoodHelpless?Or whenHe beganBeating the old womanWho befriended him?Some may sayIt was on the gurneyIn the blank white roomAt the prisonWhen wasHisLast Breath?